Lexington, Ky., March 4, 2014—Photo Science, a Quantum Spatial company, was recently awarded a multi-million dollar, 5-year, Indefinite Delivery Contract to provide the National Oceanic and Atmospheric Administration (NOAA) with Shoreline Mapping Services. This contract is in support of the National Geodetic Survey’s (NGS) Coastal Mapping Program, Aeronautical Survey Program, and Vertical Datum update (GRAV-D).

A majority of the tasks awarded under this contract will support NOAA’s Coastal Mapping Program requirements for the National Shoreline (shoreline.noaa.gov). Photo Science’s President, Mr. Mike Ritchie, commented that, “We are excited to continue to provide aerial imagery and coastal LiDAR acquisition and processing for NOAA under this contract. With our expanded assets and capabilities, we can provide NOAA stakeholders with robust resources for our Nation’s Coastline.”

Photo Science recognizes that not all shoreline maps are created equal. In fact, the official NOAA tide constrained shoreline is commonly referenced in legal descriptions for jurisdictional and property boundaries. NGS has the federal responsibility to provide this shoreline for boundary determination, cartographic representation, change analysis, and nautical chart production.

Fifty-two percent of the Nation's total population live in coastal watershed counties. Most of these coastal populations reside within 10 meters of elevation of existing sea levels. Recent events such as Super Storm Sandy and Hurricane Irene have highlighted the importance of accurate elevation and charting data to ensure responsible Coastal Zone Management. This mapping program allows NOAA to monitor changes to our coasts with greater accuracy and consistency while also providing data to meet broader stakeholder requirements.

“We are honored to continue to be a part of this important program. Topo/Bathy LiDAR provides the accurate elevation framework and scientific knowledge needed for coastal zone management decision-making. LiDAR data is essential to responding to nationwide environmental concerns associated with shoreline erosion, flood inundation, and ecosystem health. The additional applications of coastal LiDAR includes nautical charting, aids to navigation, and to provide hydrographic information in waters too shallow and unsafe for survey vessels. With recognition of this need for accurate LiDAR data, we have taken the initiative to improve on our LiDAR services. By developing new technological tools, such as our Tide Tool application and FOCUS quality assurance reporting, and increasing our sensors and processing center, Photo Science will be able to facilitate the processing of our accurate LiDAR data faster and more accurate than we have done in the past,” noted Mr. Ritchie.

Quantum Spatial, Inc. is a leading professional services firm specializing in spatial data generation, integration, enablement, and analytics, serving the needs of clients worldwide. Quantum Spatial’s goal is to improve our client’s operations and decision making in areas such as Natural Resources, Government, Infrastructure, Energy, and Public Safety by utilizing the power of geospatial data and analytics through our unique cloud-based delivery infrastructure. For more information please call 1-800-558-6707 or visit quantumspatial.com.

About NOAA

NOAA’s mission is to understand and predict changes in the Earth's environment, from the depths of the ocean to the surface of the sun, and to conserve and manage our coastal and marine resources. For more information please visit noaa.gov.